2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept Gets Fully Unveiled

2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept is finally revealed after being teased several times. The brand's best selling Yaris has been turned into a dynamic track or road car thanks to applied high-performance engineering and advanced hybrid technology, which was inspired by TS030 hybrid Le Mans race car.

The new model will make its world premiere next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, where it will show a future development of hybrid technology which aims to achieve maximum performance and enhanced driving pleasure.

This Toyota's hybrid powertrain combines a highly tuned 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and two powerful electric motors. Together they are capable of delivering a total output of 313kW (420hp). In addition, the direct-injection turbo has been adapted to racing conditions, provides 224kW (300hp) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque to drive the front wheels.

At the rear, each wheel of the vehicle is powered by a 45kW (60hp) electric motor. This results in an intelligent electric four-wheel drive capability. The motors produce electricity during braking and then aid the petrol engine during acceleration.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R has several modes which are controlled via a button on the steering wheel. First, the "Road" mode is suitable for everyday driving, while the "Track" mode is better for competition. The latter model makes full use of available performance, with the rear electric motors able to reach a combined maximum power peak of 90 kW (120 hp) for up to five seconds.

There is also a third 45kW electric motor, which is positioned between the engine and the six-gear sequential transmission. It can work as an advanced traction-control system. In addition, the twin rear electric motors can improve the handling characteristics during cornering.

The hybrid system operates in conjunction with the 1.6-litre turbo engine. Depending on the state of charge of the battery, the new Concept can be driven in full electric mode for short distances.

2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R has new design cues. For instance it adopts the new headlights, a wider front grille and black and blue details, which make the perfect contrast with the white body colour.

Furthermore, the front bumper now includes two large air intakes and blue LED daytime running lights. In addition, the flared fenders house 18-inch TRD wheels fitted with 225/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres. There are also visible grooved and perforated brake discs which are gripped by six-piston callipers in the front and four-piston callipers in the rear.

Going to the rear, the car has a spoiler which is mounted on the roof and the bumper with a big diffuser that includes an exhaust pipe framed by two air extractors. The exterior color scheme is continued in the interior. The dual-tone Recaro bucket seats feature black leather side bolsters and blue Alcantara®. The shift lever of the sequential gearbox is set up to quickly change down gears by pushing the lever forwards, and to change up by pulling it back. The car is fitted a set of sport pedals from the 86 sports coupe.